Mum sets up online fundraising appeal for Sunderland school trashed by vandals

Chelsie Mitchell, 28, from Thorney Close, in Sunderland, has set up an online appeal to help nearby Hasting Hill Academy.

Yobs had smashed windows, ripped up plants, smeared mud across school property and even damaged wishing wells that the children have made.

Chelsie’s three sons, Alfie aged 11, Freddie, aged eight, and Charlie, aged four, all go to the school and she has explained why the fundraiser was set up.

She said: “Everyone on the estate has links to the school, it has always been a great community.

“I heard about the damage and waited a few hours to see if anyone had set something up to raise some money.

“When no one had done anything, I decided that I would set one up.”

The fundraiser has had a great response, raising over £600 so far and surpassing the £250 target.

Chelsie said: “I’m really surprised at the response, £250 would have been more than enough so I’m really amazed by it.

“The school will be able to buy whatever they need or even put it towards some CCTV cameras so it doesn’t happen again.”

Headteacher Natalie Fountain commented on the fundraiser, saying: “The community spirit has really boosted us all at school.”

Northumbria Police have confirmed that an investigation into the incident has been launched.

You can view the fundraiser by clicking here.

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